Christmas Day Swimming in Cornwall

Feeling adventurous this Christmas? Before tucking into your turkey and indulging in mulled wine and mince pies, or finding yourself surrounded by a debris of wrapping paper - join the thousands of people braving the cold Cornish weather to take part in freezing, festive swims in the name of fun and charitable goodwill.

Before taking a look at a few of the most popular Christmas swims below, there are a few rules and regulations to uphold:

Join over 400 people in a flurry of swimsuits and Santa hats at Gwithian beach this Christmas. From 7am to 11.45 am take the plunge into the chilly Cornish waves for a spine-tingling experience!

Sennen

Celebrate Christmas in Cornish style and help to uphold this 50-year-old tradition by joining 300 other brave souls at the most westerly Christmas swim in the UK – the event starts at 11am on Christmas morning.

It’s a swimwear only affair at St Agnes’ Trevaunance Cove (and obligatory Santa hats of course). This 20-year-old tradition that started as a dare from a pub landlady has formed the basis of a north coast Christmas tradition – be there for 11am.

Polzeath

Wetsuits are strictly forbidden at this icy dip where over 400 people leave the comfort of their homes to brave the Cornish seas, working up an appetite for Christmas lunch.

Watergate Bay

Head into the icy waters for a quick dip in front of the Extreme Academy at Watergate Bay, before heading back up the beach to warm up in front of one of the hotel’s inviting roaring fires.

Hold your breath and brave the icy December waters for a Boxing Day swim at the historic Charlestown Harbour. Organised by the Charlestown Rowing Club this event sees hundreds of swimmers taking a frosty dip for local charities.

New Years Day

Gyllygnvase Beach

There’s nothing better to wake you up after seeing the New Year in, than a chilling dip in the sea. Starting at 12pm join the bravest and most daring of all ages for this thrilling annual event.

Whether you’re looking for places to stay in Cornwall, seeking inspiration on things to do whilst visiting, or simply want to find out more about this beautiful part of the world, you can find everything you need to know, right here.